Opening to the mirth and marvels in everyday life.

Day 744

1. All of the cute store merchants who speak a few words of English to me as they ring up my purchase. I always speak the VERY limited Japanese I know (i.e., “kudasai” [please] and “arigato” [thank you]), and most people say “arigato” in return. But a few young women have said “thank you” back to me (in quiet voices), and one even said, “Have a nice day” (in a more confident tone). Aw, what a sweetheart. Hearing even four words of English spoken directly to me is quite lovely.